Two Locations

Knoxville

865-982-6452

Tri-Cities

423-975-9111

Operating Hours

Parts & Service

M-F 7am - 5pm

Sales & Rentals

M-F 8am - 5pm

Contact Us

865-982-6452

Sales: Blake Wilson

Parts/Service: Terry Nichols

Heavy Equipment
July 1, 2025

CASE Small Articulated Loader Lineup

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Contractors Machinery

Versatility and Power for Every Job

CASE Construction Equipment’s small articulated loader (SAL) lineup is engineered for versatility, maneuverability, and performance, making it a top choice for professionals in landscaping, construction, agriculture and property maintenance. Don’t let their size fool you…these small articulated loaders pack a serious punch. Let’s breakout the benefits of each model and discuss the types of jobs these machines are built to take on.

CASE SAL Model Lineup and Key Specs

Model Power Source Horsepower Operating Weight Notable Features
SL12 Diesel 25 hp 2,646 lb Ultra-compact, agile
SL27 TR Diesel 50 hp 5,732 lb High power, robust build
SL35 TR Diesel 65 hp 8,818 lb Telescopic, heavy-duty

Benefits and Applications by Model

SL12 Small Articulated Loader

  • Benefits: The most compact model, perfect for tight spaces like backyards or inside buildings. Despite its size, it delivers 25 hp and a lifting capacity over 2,400 lbs. Easy to transport with a pickup and trailer. Intuitive controls and excellent visibility make it ideal for new operators.
  • Ideal for: Landscaping, tree service, hardscaping, property maintenance in confined areas.

SL27 TR Small Articulated Loader

  • Benefits: Significant jump in horsepower (50 hp) and capacity over the SL12, designed for heavy-duty applications. Still nimble enough for sites with limited access.
  • Ideal for: Roadwork, utility, and large-scale property management.

SL35 TR Small Articulated Loader

  • Benefits: This is the largest and most powerful in the series, featuring a telescopic boom. It combines the benefits of a loader and telehandler, handling the heaviest and most challenging jobs.
  • Ideal for: Construction, agriculture, bulk material handling, and any job requiring high reach and capacity.

Universal Benefits of Case’s Small Articulated Loader Lineup

  • Maneuverability: Articulated steering and compact footprints allow for easy navigation in confined spaces and minimal ground disturbance—ideal for turf and delicate surfaces.
  • Versatility: Over 70 compatible attachments enable tasks like digging, sweeping, augering, hammering, and more, turning one machine into a multi-tool for year-round productivity.
  • Transportability: Most models are light and narrow enough for transport with a standard pickup and trailer, reducing logistics costs and complexity.
  • Operator Comfort: Spacious cabs, ergonomic controls, and excellent visibility reduce worker fatigue and increase productivity during long shifts.
  • Easy Maintenance: Simplified service access and robust construction minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
  • CASE Support: Backed by CASE’s extensive dealer network, ensuring parts, service, and expert support are always available.

Meeting Industry Needs

CASE SALs are designed to meet the ever-evolving requirements of:

  • Landscapers needing nimble, turf-friendly machines
  • Contractors working in urban or indoor environments
  • Property managers and municipalities requiring versatile solutions
  • Farmers and agricultural operators seeking efficient material handling

Whether you need a compact loader for backyard landscaping, or a powerful telescopic loader for heavy construction, CASE’s small articulated loader model line-up delivers the right blend of power, versatility and support to keep your business moving forward.

To learn more, visit Contractor’s Machinery and try one for yourself.

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The most common causes of summer equipment breakdowns
Equipment Maintenance
June 1, 2025

What are the most common causes of summer equipment breakdowns?

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Contractors Machinery

At Contractor’s Machinery we know that summer is the busiest season for construction, but it’s also the toughest on your heavy duty equipment. Between high temperatures, relentless exposure to the sun and the elements, and increased workload, it’s the perfect storm for machinery breakdowns. Understanding the main causes of summer equipment failures can help you plan to keep your fleet of hard-working equipment working smoothly and avoid expensive repairs and project delays.

Here are the key takeaways from today’s blog that we’ll be covering.

  1. Summer heat puts significant strain on construction equipment.
  2. Overworking machines or ignoring recommended maintenance can quickly result in costly breakdowns and project delays.
  3. Preventative measures are essential to minimize downtime and keep equipment operational during the hottest months.

Thermal Failures: The Heat is On

High ambient temperatures can cause engines and electrical components to overheat, leading to breakdowns and even catastrophic engine damage. Overheating strains cooling systems, including coolant levels and the hoses which carry it, which can fail if not properly maintained.

Electrical components are especially vulnerable to heat, as excess temperatures can cause wiring and connectors to degrade or fail, along with cooling fans running at maximum capacity for hours.

Fluid Degradation: The Hidden Threat

Heat accelerates the breakdown of essential fluids such as engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. As these fluids degrade, the chemical compounds and additive packages that make up their protective qualities diminish, thereby increasing the risk of accelerated component wear and failure. More frequent fluid checks and changes are necessary in summer, along with regular filter replacements to maintain performance.

Hydraulic System Issues: Under Pressure

Excessive heat can cause hydraulic fluid to thin, altering its viscosity and reducing its effectiveness, which increases the risk of leaks and hose damage. Hydraulic systems under heat stress may suffer from reduced performance or even complete catastrophic failure if not properly monitored.

Cooling System Problems: Keeping It Cool

Coolant systems are the frontline defense against overheating, but they can fail due to leaks, damaged hoses or clogged radiators. The job of coolant is to circulate and pull heat out of an engine, while the radiator’s job is to pull heat out of the coolant before it circulates back into the engine.

One simple way to keep your coolant from boiling is to have the correct pressure cap on your cooling system.

Dust and debris, common on summer job sites, can accumulate on radiators and cooling fans, impeding airflow and causing temperatures to elevate. Regular exterior radiator cleaning and inspection are critical to prevent these issues. Also making sure a coolant’s boiling point is maximized for the summer months with a proper mixture is critical.

Tire and Track Problems: Hot Underfoot

Summer heat and ozone exposure causes tires to wear out faster and crack, both of which increase the risk of blowouts, especially for equipment in constant use. Hot pavement and heavy loads compound these risks, making regular tire inspections and pressure checks essential.

Sun Damage: More Than Skin Deep

Prolonged sun exposure can fade paint, crack plastic, and degrade hoses and seals, leading to premature failure of exterior components. Storing equipment in the shade or under covers when not in use can significantly extend its service life as well as appearance.

Grease Issues: Lubrication Breakdown

Extreme heat can cause grease to thin and “squeeze out” from bearings and joints, reducing lubrication and increasing wear. Regular re-greasing and use of heavy duty heat-resistant lubricants helps maintain protection for moving parts. Synthetics are always a great option for any kind of lubricant.

Overloading: Pushing Limits

Overworking machines by exceeding lifting limitations, redlining engines, or failing to allow proper cool-down periods can quickly lead to overheating and damage to engines, transmissions, cooling systems, and even air conditioning components. Always operate within the manufacturer’s recommended parameters and heed dashboard warnings or alerts. It only takes a short time before you brick an engine, bringing a job to a halt quickly and ruining your day.

Preventing Summer Breakdowns: Best Practices

  • Inspect cooling systems daily: Check fans, hoses, and radiators for debris or damage, and clean regularly.
  • Monitor and maintain fluid levels: Top off coolant, hydraulic fluid, and oil, and change them more frequently in hot weather. Consider synthetics if your budgets allow.
  • Check tires and tracks: Inspect for wear, maintain correct tire pressure, and replace aging or damaged tires as needed.
  • Store equipment out of direct sun: Use shade, tarps, or shelters to protect machines when not in use. Garages are even better.
  • Use A/C systems correctly: Avoid running A/C with windows open, which strains the system and reduces efficiency.
  • Schedule regular maintenance: Preventative care is your best defense against costly summer breakdowns. Most equipment comes with regular or extreme service schedules. Summertime is the extreme service schedule.
  • Worker Education: Ensure your work team is educated about watching for signs that equipment is not functioning correctly and are frequently inspecting the key points of potential problem areas daily. They’re not only your first line of defense, but often the last line in assuring proper equipment operation.

Let’s face it…summer heat is tough on construction equipment, but proactive maintenance and awareness of common failure points can keep your heavy machines running strong and working long all season. By understanding how thermal stress, fluid degradation, and sun exposure affect your fleet, you can take steps to minimize downtime, reduce repair costs, and keep your projects on track. Contractor’s Machinery can help you keep your machines working at maximum capacity for you. Schedule repairs or seasonal maintenance now. Contact us. 

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Construction Industry Trends
April 1, 2025

The 2025 Construction Industry: A Golden Opportunity to Build a Career

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Emily Bieger

Can you name a US industry that pays extremely well and is looking to hire nearly half a MILLION new employees? In 2025, the U.S. construction industry is poised for an unprecedented boom, creating a wealth of opportunities for those seeking a rewarding career path. With a projected need for 439,000 new workers, the industry is ripe for potential job seekers looking to build a stable and lucrative future career or advance from the ground up.

What We Found:

  • With increased growth, the construction industry is in immediate need for workers, and the benefits are many
  • Construction wages are outpacing many other job sectors
  • Those aspiring to leadership roles are finding their career paths expedited
  • A rewarding and impactful construction career could be easier to achieve than you think

Why Choose Construction in 2025?

High Demand Equals Job Security – The construction sector’s urgent need for workers translates to excellent job security. With an aging workforce and a shortage of skilled labor, your expertise will be highly valued, ensuring long-term employment prospects and excellent compensation.

Competitive Wages and Benefits – As the industry grapples with the labor shortage, wages are on the rise. Average hourly earnings in construction have increased by 4.4% over the past year, outpacing many other sectors. This trend is likely to continue, making construction a financially attractive career choice.

Diverse Career Paths – The construction industry offers a wide array of career options. From traditional trades like carpentry and plumbing to emerging roles in green construction and technology integration, there’s a path for every interest and skill set, from backhoe operators to data analysists.

Opportunity for Rapid Advancement – With many experienced workers nearing retirement, there’s ample room for quick career progression in the construction industry. Young professionals entering the field now could find themselves in leadership positions much faster than in other industries. With great responsibility comes great compensation, as well as the opportunity to mentor under some of the finest minds in the industry.

The Green Revolution in Construction – One of the most exciting developments in construction is the surge in green and renewable energy projects. This shift has created a new category of high-paying jobs that combines traditional construction skills with cutting-edge environmental technology. Even CMI-Case construction equipment is benefitting from advances in technology to be more durable, efficient and environmentally conscious than ever before, whether EV or ICE, and mechanics and engineers are always needed to maintain their ever advancing features under heavy usage. A clean running machine is an efficient machine.

Top Green Construction Jobs for 2025:

For those interested in Green Construction jobs, these are four industry trades that are projected to see increased need and growth in the next 8 years:

  1. Solar PV Installers: Projected 48% growth with 12,000 new jobs by 2033
  2. Electricians: 11% growth with 84,300 new jobs by 2033
  3. Construction Laborers: 7% growth with 119,400 new jobs by 2033
  4. Plumbers: 6% growth with 26,300 new jobs by 2033

Embracing Technology and Innovation – The construction industry is rapidly adopting new technologies, from drones and robotics to Building Information Modeling (BIM). This tech revolution is creating exciting opportunities for those with digital skills, making the field broader and appealing to tech-savvy individuals.

Industry Efforts to Welcome New Talent – Recognizing the need for fresh talent, the construction industry is actively engaged to make careers more appealing and accessible:

  • Increased focus on reaching a broader pool of candidates
  • Partnerships with trade schools and community colleges
  • Development of apprenticeship programs
  • Improved working conditions and safety measures
  • Investment in upskilling and continuous learning opportunities

The construction industry in 2025 presents a unique opportunity for career growth, financial stability and personal development. With high demand, competitive wages, and a diverse range of career paths, now is the perfect time to consider a future in construction. And it doesn’t have to start after getting a 4-year college degree. Whether you’re a recent graduate, looking for a career change, or simply seeking a field with ample opportunities, the construction industry of 2025 welcomes you to not just build structures, but a rewarding and impactful career and life.

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The growing need for compact equipment in urban construction
Construction Industry Trends
February 1, 2025

The Growing Need for Compact Equipment in Urban Construction

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Emily Bieger

As the need for residential and commercial space continues to grow, urban construction has become much more common. The unique confines of an urban landscape present construction challenges for the size and type of equipment that can be used to build in the urban environment. As new compact construction technology continues to develop and mature, it’s important for contractors to understand why they need to consider acquiring quality compact machinery. Below is a list of reasons why compact equipment better fits growing city and startup project construction sites.

Compliance with Urban Regulations

Regulations regarding the types of equipment contractors are allowed to use in certain areas have grown. With laws limiting noise, emissions and even weights of construction equipment in crowded areas, a growing need has presented itself for smaller equipment that can handle the same workload as their larger counterparts. Machinery like Case Compact Track Loaders and Compact Dozer Loaders help exceed site needs while meeting these more stringent regulations. Simultaneously, they set the bar as top-of-the-line compact equipment that performs above its weight class.

Navigating Tight Spaces

Urban construction’s most difficult challenges include navigating narrow streets, crowded neighborhoods and working with limited staging areas. Compact equipment excels in these environments. Mini excavators and other compact equipment can efficiently dig and grade in areas where larger machines struggle to fit or get turned around. The Case TR340B Compact Track Loader offers a smaller overall footprint, allowing operators to maneuver through tight spaces without sacrificing performance.

Versatility of Compact Machinery

Compact equipment often offers a useability and versatility that larger, clunkier equipment can’t match. With compact machinery’s ability to easily interchange attachments such as grapples, buckets and augers, the need to bring in specific pieces of large machinery can be, to some extent, limited, if needed at all. Adding versatile compact machinery to your fleet of construction equipment can help streamline urban construction jobs while saving time and money from deploying your big gun/high dollar machinery.

Improved Transport and Storage

The convenience of compact machinery in urban construction becomes quite evident when it’s time to transport your equipment. Deploying heavy equipment in urban areas through urban traffic can be challenging and time-consuming. And time is money. Compact machines are easier to load, transport and properly store, making them more practical and economical for city projects. 

Cost Effectiveness

Smaller machinery usually comes with smaller upfront purchasing costs, reduced maintenance and lower fuel costs compared to large machinery. For contractors working on startup projects with limited budgets and for those developing smaller urban infrastructure, compact machinery is ideal. There is no need to take up space and spend extra cash on large machinery that can only be used for specific jobs if smaller equipment can get the job done. Do be aware however, that costs can escalate pretty quickly when you start adding on all the attachments you may need for certain jobs. Keep this in mind when building your small equipment fleet.

In conclusion, the following is still true: Size matters. If you are finding cost issues and inconveniences in deploying your large equipment in the ever-growing and developing urban landscape, it may be time to consider some smaller-sized equipment options that are still tough enough to get the heavy jobs done but be easier to operate on the job site. Consult with your CMI Case representative to find the right sized equipment options and attachments for your construction fleet.

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Keep heavy equipment operating efficiently in winter months
Equipment Maintenance
January 20, 2025

Keeping Heavy Machinery Operating Efficiently in Winter Months

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Emily Bieger

As temperatures drop and winter weather approaches, heavy construction equipment works harder. Cold weather can affect machinery performance, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of breakdowns. At CMI Case, we understand the importance of keeping equipment in top working condition year-round. With that in mind, here are some essential tips to keep your heavy construction equipment operating optimally to keep your projects on track during the colder months.

Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

Regular equipment inspections are key to preventing costly repairs and untimely breakdowns. Check for leaks, wear and damage, especially in hydraulic systems, electrical components, engines and cooling systems. Maintain proper tire pressures and look for cracks or excessive wear on tracks and tires, particularly for excavators and skid steers. These simple steps can save you time and suffering out in the cold of winter.

Switch to Winter Grade Fluids

Cold temperatures cause fluids to thicken and flow more slowly, reducing machinery efficiency and performance. To combat this, it’s essential to switch to winter-grade engine oil, hydraulic fluids and fuel additives, which help prevent diesel fuel from gelling. Diesel engines are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, as water in the fuel system can freeze and cause clogs or damage. To avoid these issues, regularly drain water separators, use anti-gel additives or winter diesel, and keep fuel tanks full to minimize condensation buildup. By taking these steps, you can ensure your equipment operates smoothly and reliably throughout the winter months.

Battery Care

Batteries often lose efficiency in cold temperatures, making it harder to start your equipment and increasing the risk of other electrical related issues. There’s an old saying that batteries get killed in the summer (due to heat) and die in the winter (due to increased load demands they can no longer maintain). To keep your batteries in peak condition during winter, start by cleaning and tightening connections to ensure proper voltage flow. Regularly test the battery charge and replace any weak or failing batteries before they become a problem and leave you stranded. For equipment stored outdoors, consider using battery heaters or maintainers to keep them warm and ready to perform, even in freezing conditions. Proper battery care can make all the difference in keeping your machines running smoothly throughout the winter. 

Store Your Equipment Properly

Making sure your equipment is stored properly will shelter it from the harsh elements of winter. If possible, use covered areas or even indoor storage facilities to protect your machinery from the winter snow, ice, wind and rain. If you are not able to find cover for your equipment it is always smart to use waterproof covers to protect external components. Also, park machinery on solid ground after use to avoid important undercarriage components from freezing.

Preparing Your Crew for the Cold

Along with preparing your heavy machinery for the winter, it’s important to make sure that your most important pieces of equipment are ready for the cold too, and that is your crew! Teaching your crew to quickly recognize and respond to things like weather related equipment stress, emergency breakdowns, and other proper machinery upkeep can ensure that your projects won’t skip a beat despite the challenges cold weather might bring. Most importantly, keep safety in mind, as cold weather and ice can make operating heavy machinery dangerous. Keeping your crew up to date on the newest safety procedures and precautions that need to take should always be the utmost priority!

Always keep the tips and tricks above in mind for cold winter days. It’s also smart to reference machinery manuals for proper manufacturer recommendations and also seek out the wisdom of sales and service professionals on techniques that can be used to best protect your machinery from winter weather. CMI Case has service and sales professionals available Monday through Friday from 8-5pm to answer all your questions about your equipment and how to properly take care of it to avoid costly breakdowns.

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Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment
Equipment Maintenance Heavy Equipment
September 1, 2024

Even Heavy Equipment Tracks Require Maintenance

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Emily Bieger

Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment. Since new tracks can be expensive, and complex installation procedures can add to that expense, extending the life of a machine’s tracks through proper maintenance is smart business. While every tracked machine will eventually need new tracks, proper care and attention can significantly extend their lifespan. Unfortunately, many operators are lax in this aspect of equipment care.

Here are five essential tips to help maximize the life of your current tracks and keep your tracked machinery operating efficiently and smoothly.

1. Choose the Right Tracks for the Job

Selecting the right track width for the conditions you’ll be working in is crucial. Narrow tracks are better for hard-packed soil or rocky terrain, while wider tracks are optimal for soft or muddy ground. Picking the proper track width ensures safety, even weight distribution and will help prevent your machine from sinking into the ground.

2. Smart Driving Practices

Although this may sound obvious, it’s important to utilize proper driving skills to prolong the life of your tracks. Avoid driving over sharp or damaging materials, curbs, or chemicals. Steer clear of steep inclines or declines and minimize time spent on harsh surfaces like asphalt or concrete. And always drive with the machine facing forward to reduce wear and prevent unnecessary track stress. Pay attention to how the machine drives and operates, listening for unusual friction or grinding noises and anything out of the ordinary will help catch issues before they can incur expensive damage.

3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Muddy tracks need to be kept clean for maximum. longevity.

Keeping your tracks clean helps avoid premature wear. Use a track spade or power washer to remove dirt and debris after each use. Accumulated dirt can affect fuel efficiency as well as cause damage, especially in the winter when frozen dirt/soil can impact rollers and bolts more easily. Be sure to regularly inspect the undercarriage for damage, misalignment, oil leaks, or erosion to the machine.

4. Proper Track Tension and Storage

Check and adjust track tension routinely to prevent damage and performance issues. Loose tracks can slip off and delay completion of your work. Inversely, overly tight tracks may strain mechanicals of machinery. When storing tracks, keep them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Periodically run the machine to avoid warping that may come from a machine staying idle for too long.

5. Thoughtful New Track Installation

When it’s time to install new tracks, proper installation is critical to avoid damage and ensure long-lasting tracks for equipment. Consider having a professional handle this process. If you chose to do it yourself, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear the appropriate gear. Make sure both tracks are replaced at the same time to maintain balanced usage wear and prolong an expensive piece of equipment’s lifespan.

Following proper care protocols and maintenance schedules will make sure you get the full usefulness, value, and longevity out of your equipment’s tracks. For more details, consult the expert technicians at Contractor’s Machinery. We’re here to help!

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CASE equipment for all types of excavation projects.
Heavy Equipment
July 14, 2024

CASE Equipment to Tackle Excavation Projects

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Contractors Machinery

Topsoil Excavation

Topsoil excavation is one of the most common types of excavation required in almost all construction projects. It is often the first step before laying the foundation or installing pipelines. Having the correct heavy-duty equipment for topsoil removal is crucial to the success of a project. CASE offers a variety of excavators, any of which can be used for such a job, with equipment ranging from compact to large.

Rock Excavation

Many soils contain large rocks or even boulders, necessitating rock excavation before construction can begin. The CASE CX140E or CX490E models are typically used and recommended for rock removal and relocation. Heavy excavators with hydraulic hammers help break up the tough East Tennessee rock for removal.

Footing Excavation

Every foundation requires footings to stabilize the structure and prevent it from sinking or collapsing. Footing excavation is necessary to dig trenches for this essential support. To meet this need, CASE has developed machinery perfect for the job. The CASE CX57C and CX60C Mini Excavators are ideal for residential footings and small commercial buildings, while the CX75 and CX80C Midi Excavators are often used for larger projects. 

Earth Excavation

Earth excavation involves removing the spoil, which is the layer of earth directly below the topsoil. The spoil is used to construct embankments, foundations, bridges, and ditches. Due to the nature of this work, larger excavators with greater bucket capacity are often recommended such as the CASE CX300D and CX500D.

Cut and Fill Excavation

Cut and fill excavation, which involves removing topsoil and spoil to form embankments, raise sections of land, and create foundation filling, often requires large, heavy-duty excavators. At Contractor’s Machinery you’ll find tough excavators like the CASE CX140 and CX500D, either of which can easily gt the job done in comfort and with 6% greater breakout force.

Trench Excavation

Trench Excavation is like footing excavation but applies to a broader range of applications. Trench excavation is used to dig trenches for sewer and pipeline installations, as well as for telephone and electric lines. Since trench excavation is done in stages to prevent deeper trenches from collapsing, it’s important to have equipment that can operate in smaller areas. For utility construction in tight spaces, the short tail radius models of the CASE excavator line are ideal. This includes the CASE CX60C, CX80C, CX145D SR, and CX245D SR.

Dredge Excavation

When the job calls for debris to be removed from the bottom of bodies of water, this is known as dredge excavation. Debris removal allows boats and other vessels to pass without scraping their hulls or getting stuck on obstructions. This type of excavation requires long-reach equipment, and CASE’s long-reach excavators are perfect for the job. Both the CASE CX220E and CX260E models will become exceptionally valuable tools for your fleet.

Muck Excavation

Muck, a mixture of soil and water, is present on many job sites and often needs to be removed to allow work to continue. Removing muck helps dry out an area or relocating it as needed. All CASE excavators can be used for muck removal, depending on the size of the project. We’re happy to help guide you as you choose the right machinery for the situation.

Basement Excavation

Basement excavation involves digging up a large area of soil, dirt, and rock to create space for installing basements or other underground structures. Due to the often-limited space, basement excavation generally requires mid-size excavators. This makes machinery like the CASE CX80C or the CX210 your go to excavators. 

Borrow Excavation

Need materials moved from one job site to another? To ensure that dirt, sand, or soil is moved and loaded into trucks efficiently and safely requires powerful, full-size excavators with big bucket capacity. The CASE CX210 and the CX750D have buckets ranging in size from 36”-96” and the lifting strength to get the job done is less time.

Contact Us

We’d love to help you find the right equipment for the job at hand. For more information about purchasing or renting CASE equipment, please contact the CMI sales team at 865-982-6452 or by email at blake@cmiCASE.com.

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Trends for heavy equipment in 2024.
Heavy Equipment
May 7, 2024

Heavy Equipment Trends in 2024

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Contractors Machinery

Ever-advancing technology and green energy are the consistent focal points for advancement as manufacturers charge into 2024. Large machines are becoming safer, more accurate, and more environmentally friendly, as the industry now looks to prioritizing autonomy as it meets the demands of this modern world.

The global trend for all vehicles is continued progress toward becoming carbon neutral. The automotive industry has been transformed with this goal in mind, and 2024 is finding that construction machinery is making huge strides in this area as well. Although history has proven that smaller equipment (such as mini excavators) can effectively run “green”, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023 unveiled several prototypes of larger machines that employ alternative power sources as well.

These electric machines offer fuel savings (the cost of diesel fuel remaining the foremost expense for the operator) and reduced toxic emissions in the environment. Unfortunately, charging time of electric equipment has been a challenge to the construction industry, where every hour counts toward (or against) getting the job done on time. Again, technology is the hero in this story. It is evolving to lessen charging time for these massive vehicles, so operators are finding that they can cut charging hours while prioritizing the health of our environment.

For those machines that currently continue to demand diesel fuel, manufacturers are exploring technology that will at least lower the emission of that fuel. This is resulting in longer operation with less harm to the environment.

In addition to using advanced technology toward energy savings, manufactures are making safety a priority in 2024. Heavy machines are being equipped with object detection proximity sensors and blind spot monitors, which emit a loud sound when objects are near that the operator might not be able to see.

in addition, camera systems are being added to machines that not only increase rearview but all-around view as well (AVMs.). These AVMs are dramatically increasing an operator’s perspective of the job site.  He or she no longer spend valuable job time checking the site manually. These cameras afford 270 degrees of visibility, substantially decreasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Progress in creating autonomy in the construction equipment industry is perhaps the most significant trend of 2024, as it encompasses all the goals of the industry. Manufacturers are investing in technology that allows equipment to be monitored and controlled remotely. Some are currently testing excavators and wheel loaders that can even effectively perform without an operator in the cab. Manufacturers are encouraged to explore this option, since it addresses the common problem of labor shortages in addition to cutting down the hazards of dangerous jobsites.

CASE is committed to leading the progress charge in 2024 to present operators with the most effective, energy-saving machines possible. Click here to get a glance at the CASE products available, or chat with a representative at CMI today to make sure your fleet is effectively meeting the needs of the construction industry in 2024.

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The CASE D series full size excavator is built with the operator in mind.
Heavy Equipment
April 1, 2024

D Series Full Size Excavators

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Contractors Machinery

Redefining “full-sized” for the industry.

CASE knows that when you’re looking for a “full-sized” machine, you’re considering far more than loading capacity and engine power. These are the essentials, and this article will outline all the bells and whistles of its D Series Full Size Excavator. But first, let’s take a look at what’s in this machine just for YOU, the operator.

We know your job is hard enough…no need for the cab of your machine to be. This excavator was designed with comfort, capacity, and control:

COMFORT: Painfully long work days mean you can’t afford to be tortured by a cramped space and cruel seating. An ergonomic approach to its design means no more wincing and moaning when climbing out of your cab.

Series D engineers considered everything from legroom to temperature, seat cushion to placement of controls in order to provide the utmost comfort as well as protection from noise and vibration. The cab is extra-wide, pressurized, and is viscous-mounted, preventing breakage commonly caused by rough terrain.

In addition to the necessary comfort, this cab comes with some “luxuries”. An AM/FM Bluetooth radio, USB connection and phone charger mean the operator never needs to lose touch with the office or home while at the job site and the work environment just got much more satisfying.

CAPACITY: This full size excavator provides 6% greater breakout force and fuel savings than its competitors through the use of hydraulic power. Its arm and boom are more effective than ever, and the machine delivers with faster cycle times and greater precision.

CONTROL:  This increased capacity is credited to CASE’s Intelligent Hydraulic System (CIHS), which incorporates a larger main valve with an electronically-controlled pump and multiple hydraulic sensors. Having a powerful machine is of limited effectiveness if that power isn’t harnessed to get the job done with pinpoint accuracy and efficiency. The Series D full size excavator does it ALL, adjusting the hydraulic pressure of the machine according to the specific job at hand. Consider this:

  • Boom Economy Control (BEC) reduces RPMs during down and swing.
  • Auto Economy Control (AEC) lowers RPMs during idling.
  • Swing Relief Control (SWC) efficiently regulates hydraulic swing power when coming out of a hole and moving toward a truck or pile.
  • Spool Stoke Control (SSC) adjusts hydraulic pressure to optimal outputs and minimizes unneeded operational functions.

Case’s Series D full size excavator sets a new bar for the construction industry. CMI is proud to help put this ground-breaking (literally!) machine in to the hands of your operators!

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Buying new or used equipment. Today's blog breaks it down.
Equipment Maintenance
January 17, 2024

New or Used?

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Contractors Machinery

Some easy ways to answer a hard equipment question.

When you need to increase your fleet, you may have a better option than buying new. Purchasing used machinery isn’t only a great idea for the small business owner who doesn’t have the capital to purchase new; there are advantages for every business owner that are worth considering. If you are weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a used equipment purchase, just be sure you can check all the necessary boxes and have genuine savings in the end.

CONDITION – Since there will always be some unknowns when buying used construction equipment, it’s critical that you ask as many questions as possible. (a) Can the owner verify the operational hours on the equipment? (b) How about a complete service history? (c) Will there be any type of warranty on your used equipment? The answers to these questions (or lack of answers) may quickly determine your decision. If you’re still leaning toward used, have a third party do a thorough inspection.

PRICE – Determine that the purchase price really is lower than buying new. Just like with a car, equipment dealers have some “wiggle room”. This increases if you’re buying multiple machines, so make sure you really know the rock-bottom costs you are comparing. Another factor in determining price is interest rates. They must be factored in when you are comparing prices of new and used alike.

AVAILABILITY – Factories typically have a substantial production lead time. Once you place an order for a new machine it may be months before your equipment hits the job site. In fact, you may need to rent equipment temporarily until yours arrives. In an industry where time equals money, this is a necessary consideration. If you buy used, it’s possible to have your new skid steer lifting, excavator digging, and dozer moving within a few days.

VALUE – New heavy-duty equipment depreciates the second it leads the dealership. This will hit hardest when it’s time to sell. Used equipment doesn’t carry the same depreciation, so the buying and selling price point should be much less substantial.

TECHNOLOGY – There are substantial technological advancements being made each year in the heavy equipment industry. If these are critical to your work, get creative and take the financial plunge…new will be your best decision in the long run.

When all things are considered, you may conclude that it’s best for your business to buy new. But don’t rule out used until all things truly are considered! You just may have a better pre-owned option. Call your CMI-Case dealer today to find out more.

Knoxville | 865.982.6452
Tri-Cites | 423.975.9111

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